AC dripping and black spots: DIY clean or call professional?« Back to Previous Page

Our AC unit in the JBR apartment has been dripping more than usual for the past couple of weeks, and now I’m seeing these small black spots starting to form on the wall behind the bedroom curtain. I’m pretty handy, but I’m worried about it being more serious. Should I try to clean this myself with bleach or is it time to call in a professional mold inspector?
Posted by Richard Allen
Asked on April 8, 2026 2:20 am
That dripping AC unit is a classic symptom of a blocked condensate drain line, a frequent issue in Dubai's humidity. The black spots are very likely active mold growth feeding on the constant moisture.

For a small area (under one square foot), a DIY clean with a vinegar solution (not bleach, as it doesn't prevent regrowth) on the wall surface can be a temporary measure. However, this only addresses the visible symptom. The root cause—the moisture from the AC unit—must be fixed to prevent it from returning immediately.

Given the ongoing water leak and the fact the mold is on a porous surface like drywall, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They will identify the exact species to assess potential health risks and use moisture meters to determine if the water has seeped into the wall cavity, which is a much more serious remediation project. In many JBR buildings, this requires coordination with facility management for proper repair of the AC drain. A proper inspection provides the evidence needed to ensure the fix is complete and the environment is truly healthy.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 10, 2026 10:23 pm